“Catania are a good side with a smart tactician and they punished us, while we left a lot to be desired. In the second half I saw the Roma I know and we'd always like to see.”

Ranieri made a surprise decision at the break, taking off midfield talisman Daniele De Rossi.

“I took off De Rossi because he was not in good shape after a fever over the last few days. He assured me before kick-off that he felt fine, but I realised as the half wore on that he was making too many mistakes.”

Catania were furious at two of the goals, as John Arne Riise crossed for Borriello after the ball had gone out of play, while Vucinic appeared to be offside.

“There are a few doubts as to whether the ball went over the line, but I will admit Vucinic was offside,” confessed Ranieri.

“We need to whittle down the squad over the January transfer window, as having this many players is not good.”